21Introduction

Piston engine induction system icing, commonly, but not completely accurately, referred to as 'carburettor icing' may occur even on warm days, particularly if they are humid, IT CAN BE SO SEVERE THAT, UNLESS CORRECT ACTION IS TAKEN, THE ENGINE MAY STOP. Induction system icing is more likely at low power setting such as those used during descent, holding, on the approach to a landing or during auto-rotation on a helicopter.

Statistics continue to show an average of 10 occurrences, including 7 accidents, per year, which were probably caused by engine induction icing. After a Forced landing or accident the ice may well have disappeared before an opportunity occurs to examine the engine, so that the cause cannot be identified positively.

Some aircraft and engine combinations are more prone to icing than others and this should be borne in mind when flying various aircraft types.

The solar Stirling engine is progressively becoming a viable alternative to solar panels for its higher efficiency. Stirling engines might be the best way to harvest the power provided by the sun. This is an easy-to-understand explanation of how Stirling engines work, the different types, and why they are more efficient than steam engines.